You don’t need to follow the numbers to know there has been a surge in SUVs over the past decade. Over15.8 million new vehicles were registered in 2024, according to Edmunds, with SUVs making up 81% of all sales. We’ve reviewed the final figures from automakers to find the ten best-selling SUVs of 2024.
This list is for the total number sold, including compact crossovers,three-row hybrid SUVs, andelectric vehicles. Surprisingly, the Tesla Model Y wasn’t the most popular overall, even though it ranked highly amongthe best-selling EVs.
In order to give you the most up-to-date and accurate information possible, the data used to compile this article was sourced from various manufacturer websites and other authoritative sources, including AutoNews and Kelley Blue Book.
10Subaru Crosstrek
2024 Sales: 181,811
Holding spots 10-13, at least one Subaru was going to make the cut. Last year, the Subaru Crosstrek beat the Outback and Forester in the brand’s SUV range.
Now in its third-generation, this compact SUV has one of the best all-wheel-drive systems as standard, and is as comfortable on the road as off. The engine can feel under-powered, though, especially when driving uphill.
2-liter
152 hp
145 lb-ft
0-60 MPH
9.5 seconds
$25,195
9Ford Explorer
2024 Sales: 194,049
Second only to the F-150 truck, the Ford Explorer is the most popular Ford in the USA, beating three-row SUV rivals like the Kia Telluride. This large SUV has a beefy engine and is sensibly priced, so it’s no wonder it’s so popular. Plus, a Police Interceptor Utility variant of the Explorer is designed specifically for the police, which is why there are so many on the road.
CarBuzz said theExplorer is the best family SUVof the year, and it’s easy to see why. There’s plenty of space throughout, more cargo than competitors, and higher trim levels wear premium leather and wood interiors.
2.3-liter
10-speed auto
300 hp
310 lb-ft
6 seconds
$36,860
8Chevrolet Trax
2024 Sales: 200,689
The Chevrolet Trax was overhauled for 2024, bringing a spacious interior, modern looks, and a plethora of standard features. It’s only available with a six-speed automatic in front-wheel drive and a small engine.
Frankly, the Trax is not ideal for those who need power and speed for regular highway driving, but it’s a bargain SUV if you need extra room. You’ll struggle to find another car similar at this price point.
1.2-liter
6-speed auto
137 hp
162 lb-ft
8.8 seconds
$20,400
7Hyundai Tucson
2024 Sales: 206,126
We’re not surprised theHyundai Tucsonwas a popular SUV last year, but we’re shocked it’s not higher on the list. This Korean crossover is famed for its distinctive design and excellent reliability.
Produced in the same factory, it’s a great alternative to the Kia Sportage, which narrowly missed this top ten list, and offers one ofAmerica’s best warranties. Advanced driver assistance systems, like blind spot cameras, help the Tucson consistently achieve five-star safety ratings.
1.6-liter hybrid
6- or 8-speed auto
187 hp
178 lb-ft
$27,500
6Jeep Grand Cherokee
2024 Sales: 216,148
Sensible isn’t a word often associated with Jeep, but the Jeep Grand Cherokee is exactly that. It’s a greatbudget mid-sized SUV for first-time buyers, with IIHS awarding the Grand Cherokee Top Safety Pick for the past three years.
Even entry-level models have an impressive amount of standard equipment, and the L model can carry up to six passengers across any terrain with Jeep’s four-wheel-drive system. Climbing rocks comes as naturally as driving on asphalt for this rugged SUV, but so do trips to the gas station.
3.6-liter V6
8-speed auto
293 hp
260 lb-ft
7.4 seconds
$39,535
5Chevrolet Equinox
2024 Sales: 236,604
Like the Ford Explorer, the Chevrolet Equinox is the brand’s second most popular vehicle behind its pickup. Aimed at Honda CR-V and Mazda CX-50 buyers, the Equinox is a less expensive mid-size SUV. Despite a new one on the horizon, the value-packed 2024 Equinox captured hearts with its attractive pricing.
A well-equipped LT model provides a premium interior with heated front seats, front and rear parking sensors, plus a slew of advanced driver assistance systems for under $30,000.
1.5-liter
175 hp
203 lb-ft
8.9 seconds
$26,600
4Nissan Rogue
2024 Sales: 245,724
Nissan is in dangerous waters when it comes to finances. Holding out hope for a partner after theNissan and Honda mergerfell through, the Nissan Rogue sales are crucial to keeping the Japanese automaker limping on. Thankfully, it’s the perfect car for the job.
Bold styling and a 13.3-inch touchscreen with a Google built-in operating system available on top trims keep it relevant, but you’ll need to spend a pretty penny for a plush interior.
201 hp
225 lb-ft
7.8 seconds
$28,420
3Honda CR-V
2024 Sales: 402,719
Leaping from 200,000 units to over 400,00, the Honda CR-V was the third favorite SUV in America. It deserves a place in the top three, with its excellent safety and reliability record, sleek new styling, and modern cabin.
There’s a choice of powertrains available, including a hybrid engine that boosts power from 190 horsepower to 204 hp. The inside is simply stunning, with crisp digital displays and high-quality finishes throughout.
190 hp
179 lb-ft
8.7 seconds
$29,500
2Tesla Model Y
2024 Sales: 405,900
We eagerly awaited final sales figures to find if the Tesla Model Y took the top spot. Going by the number of Tesla cars we see on the road, it was clearly a favorite. However, it narrowly missed out on the top spot.
Still, over 405,000 sales is not to be scoffed at. The Model Y gained popularity as an affordable electric vehicle with good range and futuristic technology, like self-driving. Thiselectric car depreciates rapidly in its first year, so these will make popular second-hand purchases.
74 kWh battery
295 hp
3.5 seconds
Base MSRP
$42,990
Previously, Tesla fans were limited to a saloon or a huge Model X. The Model Y filled a gap in the market, appealing to those looking for a premium EV that fits into city life. The amount of technology in any Tesla is impressive, and the recently released 2025 version takes it to a whole new level.
1Toyota RAV4
2024 Sales: 475,193
First appearing in 1994, the Toyota RAV4 laid the foundations for an everyday SUV with its monocoque chassis. This unique design allowed a rugged off-road vehicle to handle with the comfort of a road car. As mentioned at the beginning of this post, this segment is now the largest in America - and beyond.
2.5-liter
203 hp
184 lb-ft
8.2 seconds
$28,675
Continuing a 30-year legacy, the 2024 RAV4 has few changes to maintain its integrity. Toyota knows the RAV4 works well, so they don’t want to make major changes that could cost its customer base. The RAV4 is a comfortable family SUV with renowned off-road capabilities and bulletproof reliability.
Since demand for SUVs has grown in recent years, competition between automakers is tougher than ever, forcing them to produce quality SUVs at lower prices. While a few of these choices hit $40,000, most of them are much more affordable and excellent value for money. Apart from the Model Y, which loses over half its value after two years, you can count on an SUV as a solid investment that will still be in demand in ten years' time.
